Hydropower, power supply of the Sarawak data centre

KUCHING, 10 Oct: Large water supply and clean energy from hydroelectricity are Sarawak's strategic advantages in attracting data center industry investment that requires water resources for cooling systems.

Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state's water resources are not only being used to generate clean electricity but also support data center operation needs.

"Compared to other areas of the country, Sarawak also has an advantage in providing water supply for data centers.

"I am very confident that the strength of these natural resources and energy, combined with technology, research, innovation and expertise with an emphasis on human resource development and resource and environmental sustainability, Sarawak will emerge as a new economic power in the region by 2030", he said.

He said this while addressing the Parade and Giant Meeting in conjunction with Sarawak State's 80th Birthday Celebration at Padang Merdeka, here today.

According to him, the state's economic development under the Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 is also focusing on the transition from a commodity based economy to higher value derivatives production.

Johari said the development of the new sector should be supported by human capital development to ensure that local people are able to meet the growing needs of industry.

In this regard, the Sarawak Free Higher Education Scheme (FTES) was launched this year with an allocation of RM250 million, involving 64 undergraduate degree programmes in four universities belonging to the Government of Sarawak.

"All this economic planning and all the resources available would not be successful and sustainable without local talent capable of filling and managing it.

"That is why education and human capital development are among the most important investments of the Government of Sarawak", he added.

He said the scheme is aimed at expanding access to higher education for qualified Sarawak children regardless of race, religion and background. - TVS